Both teams came out determined to take an early lead, which led to a high octane and end-to-end first half at AAMI Park.

Despite chances for both sides, with Griffiths and Wales going closest for City, Troisi and Antonis for Victory, the match was goalless at halftime.

But it was the champions who made the first inroads on the score line as Swedish striker Ola Toivonen ghosted in unmarked at the back post to simply tap-in Kosta Barbarouses’ cross.

Kevin Muscat’s side looked like heading for yet another win but City found a way to snatch a point as Scott Jamieson’s cross picked out Dario Vidosic at the death for a share of the points at 1 – 1.

Melbourne City

Eugene Galekovic – 7

Made a crucial stop to deny James Troisi in the first half from close range. Nothing he could do to stop a simple finish for Toivonen.

Ritchie De Laet – 6

Just like the round one derby, the Belgian was the key outlet for City early on and threatened with his pace and crossing ability. However, his influence slowly faded away and he was subbed off after 64 minutes.

Harrison Delbridge – 6

Looked really solid up until the goal by Ola Toivonen, where he should have taken more control of the situation by marking his direct opponent instead of leaving it to Scott Jamieson.

Bart Schenkeveld – 7

The Dutchman has become one of Warren Joyce’s most important players and in the opening 45 he didn’t lose a single key duel. Remained solid in the second half to keep Toivonen and Barbarouses quiet despite their link up for the opener.

Scott Jamieson – 7

De Laet was key for City in the first half but Jamieson began to grow in an attacking sense as the game wore on. Unfortunately it was a miscommunication between Delbridge that led to Toivonen swooping in to open the scoring at the back post.